Friday 16 September 2011

Goat Farming For Profit - Pros and Cons Of Commercial Goat Farming

By Ted Allen


Goats are not only important in the health of the environment but also in the economy. Commercial goat farming is an endeavor practiced today by many especially those in the rural regions. Goats are strong creatures that are able to resist various diseases and adapt to unfavorable environments. This article will mainly tackle on goat rearing, its advantages and implications.

Goat farming for profit entails a low initial investment. Since goats are relatively small in size, the facilities and amenities to support them are also minimal. Goats generally love being with humans and they are extremely docile. They have a high fertility rate achieving maturity with just 10 to 12 months of maturity and by 16-17 months, they can start producing milk. The probability of producing twins is high. Risk associated with drought is less in commercial goat farming compare to other livestock breeds. Also, both male and female species of goats are of the same value compared to other animals.

Commercial goat farming is very flexible since it could be modified to include other grazing species like sheep and cattle. Goats are good instruments to enhance the health of the grazing land and minimize encroachment of bushes. Farming goats is a true survivor in the business industry. Goat meat is a great appeal to the public because of the health benefits it provides to its consumers. It is extremely low in fat, cholesterol and calories. This is good for people who have low energy diet scheme.

The future of commercial goat farming would also depend on the type of goats being reared. Some common types of goats are the Angora, Boer, Jamunapari and Tellichery. Two raising goats methods are applied in today's goat ventures: semi-intensive and intensive. Each of these goats entails a different kind of breeding and each has its own specialty. Angora for instance specializes in fiber where Boer for meat.A semi-intensive system entails an environment with less grazing fields and intensive feeding of green fodders. An intensive system on the other hand involves a no-grazing land and the green fodders are given to the goats in sheds. The housing facility may have a raised platform system.

If one finds it hard to get capital or investment for a commercial goat farming business, banks could be an alternative. An apex institution named NABARD helps eager goat farmers to start their own business. This institution helps provide and assist on investment and credit for agriculture and goat farming.




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